After a fitness scare, Nigerian star Victor Osimhen (25) is cleared to play in Wednesday’s Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against South Africa, the team announced.
“On Wednesday, Victor Osimhen will be able to be selected for the semi-final matchup against South Africa. He trained with the squad today after joining the team in Bouake, a team representative told AFP on Tuesday.
The Napoli striker’s availability had been questioned at first after he missed the team’s Monday flight from Abidjan to Bouake because of stomach pain.
Monday’s training was also skipped by the African player of the year, who was replaced late in Nigeria’s victory over Angola in the quarterfinals over the weekend.
When questioned about Osimhen’s chances of playing South Africa earlier on Tuesday at a press conference, coach Jose Peseiro had been evasive.
“I have a health issue, so I can’t respond at this time. I’ll find out more this afternoon whether he can play or not,” he remarked.
Despite only scoring once during the Super Eagles’ opening 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea, Osimhen has been a standout player for the team.
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